I don't know where my head was at, but I forgot to review the best record of 1999 over the last few issues. I have to get this in. Metal fans need to know of the gold mine within the latest Nevermore offering, _Dreaming Neon Black_. Here goes. There is nothing like hearing a record for the first time and being blown away by it. This is a rare occurrence, usually, as most records take a few listens before you really fall in love with and/or hate them. Not the case with _DNB_. From the opening sound clip (from the movie "Lord of Illusions") to the abrupt end, the concept-themed ideas of _DNB_ work wonders for the listener. Shrouded within darkened wails from singer Warrel Dane and the mastery of his band's musicianship in the field of progressive metal (most notably the dual guitar work of Jeff Loomis and new guy Tim Calvert), this album unfolds like the true tale that it is. Not once are we left to wander from the story told. There is no downtime here. It all flows wonderfully and we can attribute that to the band's excellent musicianship over the years and Dane's truly heartfelt and gripping lyrical content. There's nothing like a good story and _DNB_ is just that. Tracks like "Poison Godmachine", "No More Will", the title track and "The Fault of the Flesh" are worthy of a listen, but to fully understand the treasure that this record is for the metal community in 1999, one must go from start to finish. You will not be disappointed. Many metal critics I know of have described this as one of the most impressive metal efforts of the '90s. Maybe even ever?! I could agree with those comments, but I'll let you be your own judge. But take it from me, there is a lot of crap out there (lots!!) and it is quite a rush to have something this good come around to show the others how metal music should be assembled. _DNB_ is basking in brilliance and Warrel Dane and Co. know this.